Sporting Lagos Edge Ranchers Bees to Begin Super Four Campaign on Winning Note
Sporting Lagos F.C. kicked off their 2026 Nigeria National League Super Four campaign with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Ranchers Bees at the Remo Stars Stadium, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.
The Lagos-based side made an assertive start, dominating possession and creating early chances. Seun Akanji came close in the 17th minute with the game’s first clear opportunity, but his effort was well saved by the Ranchers Bees goalkeeper. Sporting Lagos continued to press, with Aliyu Baba also posing a threat, although the breakthrough remained elusive against a disciplined defensive setup.
The decisive moment arrived five minutes before halftime. A well-worked move involving Shola Oladunjoye and Akanji resulted in a pinpoint cross into the box, which Alex Leme met with a powerful header to give Sporting Lagos the lead in the 40th minute.
Ranchers Bees responded with greater urgency after the break, but Sporting Lagos held firm defensively to preserve their slender advantage and secure maximum points in their opening fixture.
Akanji, who provided the assist for the winning goal and impressed throughout the match, was named Man of the Match. Reflecting on the performance, he highlighted the team’s collective effort and focus.
“This award means a lot, but it reflects the team’s work. We started well, but we remain focused on what lies ahead,” he said.
The result positions Sporting Lagos as early frontrunners in the Super Four tournament as they pursue promotion and silverware. The encounter also drew notable figures, including Sunday Dare, Felix Owolabi, and Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, who attended alongside his assistant Daniel Ogunmodede.
Attention now shifts to the next fixture, where Doma United will take on Inter Lagos under the floodlights at the same venue.
Comments
This article has 0 comment(s) , give your comment